Solari and Bale's Abu Dhabi honeymoon

The Club World Cup is a honeymoon for Gareth Bale and Santiago Solari, as they are a happy couple taking their relationship from strength to strength.

Two weeks ago they faced the critics and reminded them of their best moments, defying those who criticised the Welshman's form and the coach's tactics, particularly after the defeat to CSKA Moscow.

Both were liberated in the win over Kashima Antlers, with Bale showing his ability and the coach watching his side reach another final convincingly.

When the forward was taken off after netting a hat-trick, there was a particularly warm handshake with the coach.

There was also laughter, showing their relationship is a good one.

Solari and Bale get on, and it's clear to see in the player's form and the coach's attitude towards his star man.

Neither could hide their delight on Wednesday, but there is still one more challenge, as Solari recognised as he left the team's hotel on Thursday.

"It won't be easy or simple," he said of Saturday's final against Al Ain.

To win, Real Madrid will need both Solari and Bale at their best.

The relationship has been built both on the pitch and in press conferences, where the Argentine has always backed his player and showed his belief in him.

After a disappointing game against Eibar, Solari has deployed Bale where he is most comfortable, which is on the left and with plenty of space.

He becomes a different player there and, once he has shaken off injuries, he can become the leader, as he was against Kashima with three goals on yet another big occasion.

What is undeniable is that Bale has talent and can fill the shoes of Cristiano Ronaldo after his departure.

Nobody doubts that, though at times it seems that he himself doubts it.

In form and physically fit, the Welshman is way ahead of the rest of the squad.

That is why the coach and the club try to take care of him, as the happiness of all of them depends on Bale's own happiness.

He is the player who can make the difference and Solari has known that ever since his first day.

Bale's hat-trick against Kashima not only rubbished the doubts over his physical and mental shape, but also sent a feeling of tranquillity through a team that has been on edge for some time.

The whole squad and all the staff know the importance of ending the year on a high, and the Club World Cup could become the 24th title won with Florentino Perez as president.